The Living Planet Report documents the state of the planet—including biodiversity, ecosystems, and demand on natural resources—and what it means for humans and wildlife. Published by WWF every two years, the report brings together a variety of research to provide a comprehensive view of the health of the earth.

What's the status of some animal populations?

Populations of vertebrate animals—such as mammals, birds, and fish—have declined by 58% between 1970 and 2012. And we’re seeing the largest drop in freshwater species: on average, there’s been a whopping 81% decline in that time period.

-38%

The terrestrial LPI shows that populations have declined by thirty-eight percent overall between 1970 and 2012.

-81%

The freshwater LPI shows that on average the abundance of populations monitored in the freshwater system has declined by eighty-one percent between 1970 and 2012.

-36%

The marine LPI shows a thirty-six percent overall decline between 1970 and 2012.

This loss of wildlife is startling, and people are at risk, too. Without action, the Earth will become much less hospitable for all of us. We must consider our impact on nature as we make development, economic, business, and lifestyle choices. A shared understanding of the link between humanity and nature is essential to making profound changes that will allow all life to thrive for generations to come.

Why are some animal populations on the decline?

Whether or not populations are in trouble depends on the resilience and location of a species, and what type of threats that species faces. Here’s a closer look at some of the top threats:

Habitat Loss and Degradation

Habitat loss and degradation is the most common threat to animals on the decline. Everything from unsustainable agriculture to residential or commercial development to energy production can damage vital areas for wildlife. WWF helps countries take stock of their natural resources and use that information to make better decisions on how to grow.

Food Systems

Our current food system impacts habitats to make way for agriculture, leads to the overfishing of our oceans, and contributes to pollution. WWF is pursuing new ways to provide nutritious food for all while minimizing the negative impact on the natural world. Watch the video.

Climate Change

As our climate changes, various animals will need to adapt to survive. Changes in temperature can mix up signals that trigger events like migration and reproduction, causing them to happen at the wrong time. The global community is taking major strides to curb climate change in the coming years.

Species Overexploitation

Animals face the dangers of overexploitation, too. Sometimes that’s direct, like through poaching and unsustainable hunting and harvesting, and sometimes that’s indirect, like through unintentionally catching one type of sea creature while attempting to catch another. WWF works to stop wildlife crime and prevent illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing.

While the pressures on forests vary across regions, the biggest cause of deforestation is expanding agriculture—including commercial livestock and major crops such as palm oil and soy. Mining, hydroelectricity and other infrastructure projects are also major pressures—new roads can have a large indirect impact through opening up forests to settlers and agriculture.

Agriculture occupies about 34% of the total land area on the planet and roughly half of the plant-habitable surface. Agricultural production is estimated to account for almost 70% of water withdrawals. Together with the rest of the food system, agriculture is responsible for 25%-30% of greenhouse-gas emissions.

Changes in climate and extreme weather events already affect biodiversity across the globe. We are already seeing ecosystems being redrawn as species adapt, disperse or become locally extinct.

Overexploitation through overfishing is the most common threat facing marine species. Recent statistics suggest that 31% of global fish stocks are overfished. Without effective management, unsustainable levels of fishing could lead to commercial extinction.

What can we do to change our course and help protect life on Earth?

Though the Living Planet Report paints a challenging picture, there’s still plenty of room for optimism. We’re already undergoing major transitions that will make for a healthier, safer, and more resilient planet.

WWF is working with governments, businesses, and communities to reduce carbon emissions, prevent habitat loss, and advance policies to fight climate change. We’re focused on protecting wildlife and conserving natural resources like forests, oceans, fresh water, and grasslands. And we’re exploring new ways to feed our population without hurting the environment.